A Lethal Obsession

February 1, 2010
Wistrich (modern European history, Hebrew Univ. of Jerusalem; "The Jews of Vienna in the Age of Franz-Joseph") pulls no punches here. He opens his introduction with a discussion of the "totalitarian nightmare" of Nazism, Stalinism, and Islamism in the 20th century. His work takes readers back to the first recorded incidence of anti-Semitism and explains how the history of this phenomenon forms the roots of modern-day intolerance toward Jews. Throughout, Wistrich builds a solid argument for his theorythat, without intervention, the current anti-Zionist, pro-Palestinian movement that cloaks anti-Semitic violence under a banner of human rights will lead to a nuclear, global Armageddon. Wistrich's no-nonsense tone makes his prose accessible, regardless of one's previous knowledge of Judaism or anti-Semitism, and the vast amount of information provided is well paced so as not to overwhelm the reader. VERDICT At 1200 pages, this massive work is worth every single page, and the meticulous research and breadth of time covered would satisfy both those seeking a thorough introduction to this difficult subject as well as those who already possess an understanding of the topic.Crystal Goldman, San Jose St. Univ. Lib., CA

Copyright 2010 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

January 1, 2010
An indisputably serious problem with global ramifications deserves an equally serious and comprehensive treatment. Modern Jewish historian Wistrich has provided just that in his masterful dissection of the origins, the dissemination, and the consequences of anti-Semitism in all of its most blatant and most subtle manifestations. Though the size and the scope of this treatise may be initially daunting, intrepid readers will be rewarded by the clarity of the scholarly presentation. Arguing that anti-Semitism in our postWorld War II world has returned with a vengeance and is, perhaps, more widespread and virulent than ever, he traces the ever-broadening roots of what he considers the oldest and darkest of ideological obsessions. No matter what political or ideological slants readers might bring to the table, this is a significant, wide-ranging discourse on the topic of anti-Semitism that cannot and should not be ignored. Wistrich has painstakingly done his homework and laid out his analysis, providing plenty of food for thought and discussion.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2010, American Library Association.)